The Best Belts for Men

The Best Belts for Men

If you're going to buy something to hold your pants up, you might as well make it good. Belts are both deeply practical and integral to the completion of an outfit. A leather belt that complements your dress shoes or watchband can elevate the entire look with ease. On the other hand, there's no need to buy a belt in every shade of brown. To help you choose a color, material, and style, we've compiled a list of the best belts, ranging from classic and casual black leather to sporty and utilitarian canvas. Read on to make sure you buy a belt that won't let you or your pants down.

Timberland Men’s Classic Leather Belt

Understated But Not Overlooked

This belt from Timberland features a simple strap and a vintage-finished buckle that do just enough to catch the eye.
Best Overall

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From the company that makes the most well-known work boots known to man (and woman) comes a leather belt that boasts Timberland’s classic durability and subtle style. The strap is made of 100% genuine leather, while the buckle has an antique finish with slightly more sheen than brushed nickel. Sizes start at 32 and go up to 48, which should fit most waists. (Remember to add two inches to your regular pant size for the best fit.) The belt is dry-clean only, but if you enjoy a distressed appearance (you’re not the only one), you can wear this belt to work for the next 10 years without washing it. Yes, it’s that good.

Pros:

  • 100% genuine leather construction
  • Comes in five different colors
  • Refined enough for work, casual enough for jeans

Cons:

  • Fit may not be suitable for those with in-between waist sizes

Timberland Men’s Classic Reversible Belt

2-in-1 and One For All

You'll never have to worry about planning what color shoe to wear thanks to this reversible belt.
Most Versatile

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If you’re constantly switching between black and brown shoes, the best thing you can do for yourself is to invest in this reversible belt from Timberland. Made of 100% genuine leather, you’ll be ready for any occasion by simply flipping the metal buckle to choose a color. The stitching will survive extreme weather conditions and continual use, while the leather will endure years of providing needed support for your slacks. Don’t get caught wearing the wrong color leather ever again.

Pros:

  • Reversible black and brown belt
  • Secure dual screw closure for durability
  • Can be hand-washed

Cons:

  • Leather may wear down more quickly due to constant reversing

Bulliant Men’s Ratchet Belt

One Size To Fit Them All

With a ratchet buckle and instructions on how to cut the strap, this Bulliant belt makes it easy to personalize the fit.
Best Fitting

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While it’s nice to think that one size can actually fit everyone, rarely does the title live up to its potential. That said, we’re here to tell you that this ratchet closure belt from Bulliant does exactly that. Instead of buying a specific size of belt, you’re given a range to choose from. Once you receive the belt, you can properly fit and trim the strap to your waist size by temporarily removing the buckle. Even after you’ve cut the strap down to your size, you’ll still have plenty of flexibility with the fit thanks to the ratchet closure. Say goodbye to bunching waistbands, flopping belt straps, and suffocated hips.

Pros:

  • Belt strap itself can be trimmed down to size
  • 32 ratchet positions provide micro-size adjustments for all sizes
  • Genuine leather strap
  • Zinc alloy buckle for durability and resistance to scratches

Cons:

  • Ratchet closure not suitable for extremely tight fits

Nike Men’s 3-Pack Golf Belt

Looking good while golfing has never been easier than with this set of belts from Nike. You won’t have to worry about stiff leather restricting your swing since the 100% cotton fabric strap provides ample flexibility and security. They can be trimmed to fit any size under 42, so there won’t be a droopy strap smacking your elbow on the follow-through, either. The set includes one buckle and three straps, meaning there’s some extra footwork involved in sporting a different color for the day. Don’t let that discourage you, though — the quick and easy process will have you on track for par in no time.

Pros:

  • Three different colored straps
  • The cut-to-fit feature allows the belt to be trimmed to your size
  • Cotton is breathable and flexible

Cons:

  • Not suitable for those with size 42 or higher
  • Labeled “no wash” by Nike

Dockers Men’s Leather Braided Belt

Get Braided, Not Jaded

Dockers' braided belt will always look good with a pressed pair of chinos, polished loafers, and a rolled-up dress shirt.
Best Braided Leather

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You might know Dockers as your grandpa’s favorite boat shoe brand, but don’t believe for a second that all their products will have you feeling old and outdated. Their braided leather belt provides a timeless, authentic look perfect for those who prefer wearing chinos and button-downs on a regular basis. Sizes run from 30 to 56, and if that’s not enough customizability, belt holes are located every quarter inch along the strap (for a total of 50 holes). Though it may not be the flashiest belt on the market, it’s certainly smart and suave in its own right.

Pros:

  • Holes every quarter inch provide proper fit
  • Plenty of sizes to choose from
  • Classic vintage look

Cons:

  • Construction is a leather-polyester blend

Frequently Asked Questions

Are reversible belts worth buying?

Though the frequent bending of reversible belts can sometimes decrease the strap life, their practicality and universality are unmatched. It’s true that you might have to replace them more often than regular belts, but many people prefer the simplicity of having one belt for every occasion. One thing to be cautious of is what materials are used in the construction; most reversible belts will not be 100% leather, which has an additional effect on durability.

How are belts sized?

Belts are sized by measuring from the inside edge of the buckle to the third hole from the belt tip. Usually, this means that you’ll want to purchase a belt size higher than your regular pant size. Of course, everyone has their own preferences when it comes to the fit of a belt, so consider measuring the size of a belt you currently have before investing in a new one.